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At the weekend our eldest was invited to a Netflix party. Now you’re probably thinking, we’re on lockdown how is that possible? Yes, we hadn’t heard of it either but it was really simple (in the end) and was a great way for him to interact with his friends via chat (there is a chat feed that runs alongside the screen) whilst they all enjoyed the film at the same time.

So how does it work?
We’ve all used Zoom for online quizzes, meetings and catch ups but this is different. Teleparty (formerly Netflix Party) is a new way to watch a film or series with your friends or family online. By synchronizing video playback you can chat whilst watching Netflix, Disney+ and more.

If you have a Chrome browser on a desktop or laptop, you simply install Teleparty and follow the instructions. All you need is a log in for the relevant streaming site. Are you still with me?

It might take a few attempts but like most things if you become stuck there is usually a tutorial out there to guide you (Luckily we had the parents group chat for set up)

A great way to organise a movie night with friends or family you currently are apart from. It won’t be forever but might make staying at home that little bit more bearable and fun.

We love a good film here at Buter Residential, so here are a few feelgood films that are bound to leave you with a spring in your step and a smile on your face.

In no particular order (although we do have a softspot for E.T.)

  1.  E.T. - Steven Spielberg’s extra-terrestrial is an all-time classic that is warming the hearts of children and adults nearly 40 years after its release. Forget phoning home. Why don’t you phone Butler Residential?
  2.  UP – This Pixar piece of perfection features one of the most moving love stories told in minutes. The rest of the film is as uplifting as it is entertaining. Where’s that Snape?
  3. CHEF – This road movie features excellent food, music, and a story of overcoming the odds and the importance of families and friends.
  4. FORREST GUMP – The world certainly needs a lot more of Forrest’s childlike optimism and simple wisdom right now, after all, life is like a box of chocolates. . .
  5. LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE – Another road movie and another brilliantly warm story about being proud to be different and loving yourself.
  6. CINEMA PARADISO – An Italian masterpiece about film lovers, friendship and finding your life’s purpose, something I’m sure we have all reflected on over the past year.
  7. THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION – Consistently rated as one of the world’s favourite films the ending is pretty much guaranteed to leave you smiling.
  8. PADDINGTON 1 & 2 – Ok so this would make it 11 films on the list but these movies featuring the loveable bear from Peru are feelgood features at their best and you can’t top the chihuahua on the tube.
  9. GROUNDHOG DAY – Something a lot of us are currently feeling. Bill Murray is masterful in this classic that teaches us to find the magic in everyday life.
  10. LA LA LAND – This easy-going musical will get you smiling and your feet tapping at the same time and who doesn’t love Ryan Gosling?

What movies would you recommend to help others feelgood during the lockdown this winter? We would love to hear.

Grab that popcorn, dim the lights and cosy up.

Happy watching!

Barry & Laura

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